Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Custom 1977 Unimog U1300 Pickup Heads to Auction

An emblem of raw power and ruggedness, a custom 1977 Mercedes-Benz Unimog U1300 SE previously owned by Arnold Schwarzenegger is slated to go under the hammer at a US auction. This isn't just any Unimog – it's a bespoke pickup that reflects the larger-than-life persona of its famous former owner, combining Hollywood glamour with hardcore off-road capability.

Arnold Schwarzenegger, a man synonymous with action roles in Hollywood films and his tenure as the Governor of California, acquired this imposing vehicle in 2012, right after concluding his gubernatorial responsibilities. The star entrusted the restoration of the Unimog to the capable hands of Merex Mertec specialists in Gaggenau, Germany, who are renowned for their expertise in upfitting these machines to the highest specifications.

The enhancements made to Schwarzenegger's Unimog are extensive. It sits on formidable 22-inch wheels wrapped in sturdy Michelin XZL 445/65 tires, ensuring that no terrain is too daunting for this leviathan. An advanced air suspension system affords a ride quality that is both comfortable and capable, whether on the highway or off the paved track. A stout trailer brake system complements the pickup’s imposing stature, improving its utility as a towing vehicle.

Safety and style go hand in hand with a robust roll bar and an array of radiant Hella lights providing exceptional illumination in all conditions. A custom-designed bed at the back caters to hauling needs while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the pickup. Adding a personal touch to this four-wheeled behemoth, the Unimog flaunts Schwarzenegger's autograph on its dashboard, making it an exceptional collector's piece.

As an off-road icon, the Unimog is heralded for its towering ride height, flexibly articulating live front and rear axles, and robust ladder-frame chassis. These key features cement its reputation as a stalwart across a range of demanding applications, from military operations to agricultural work and challenging rescue missions.

The heart of this vehicle is a brawny 6.4-liter in-line six-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that works in tandem with a manual transmission to deliver unparalleled power and performance. Schwarzenegger’s Unimog personifies muscular vehicular engineering, a fitting reflection of the actor's own physical and cinematic stature.

This Unimog, however, represents just a fraction of Schwarzenegger's impressive fleet that includes such titanic autos as a Hummer H1, Dodge Challenger SRT8, Bugatti Veyron, and even an M47 Patton tank. Yet, in recent times, Schwarzenegger has pivoted towards advocating a more sustainable vehicular future, evidenced by his owning a 2016 electrically-converted Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon and a hydrogen-powered Hummer H2.

The opportunity to acquire such a unique and well-documented vehicle comes at the Barrett-Jackson auction scheduled from January 20 to 28 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Schwarzenegger’s Unimog is being offered without reserve, providing enthusiasts and collectors a chance to claim a significant piece of automotive and celebrity history.